Introduction to derby
The Classic Paulistabetter known in brazil like the Shock-Kingis the historic rivalry between Palmeiras and São Paulo. The derby, played for the first time in March 1930, reflects more than a century of cultural identity, tactical evolution and political power within São Paulo state football. It is reproduced in emblematic places such as Morumbi and Allianz Parque Brazilian Serie A The derby has shaped title races, defined generations of players and produced some of the most emotionally charged atmospheres in South American football.
All-time head-to-head record
In all official competitions, Palmeiras and São Paulo
they have met more than 350 times. The global record highlights one of the
closest rivalries in Brazilian football, with near-perfect wins and goals
balanced over nine decades of competition. ((pt.wikipedia.org)(
| games | Palmeiras wins | draws | São Paulo wins | Palmeiras goals | Goals from São Paulo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 352 | 120 | 116 | 116 | 460 | 446 |
The marginal advantage that Palmeiras has has been largely incorporated
He has been playing in the national league since the 70s, while the strongest in São Paulo
stints in state championships and continental competitions occurred. the strait
The goal difference underlines how rarely the two teams have been able to dominate
rivalry for a long time, with momentum swinging back and forth through the ages.
((pt.wikipedia.org)(
Recent head-to-head matches (last 10 meetings)
The most recent meetings show a tactical and low-margin pattern, with
several one-goal games and disciplined defensive displays. League and
The Campeonato Paulista matches have alternated between Morumbi and Allianz
Parque, reinforcing the importance of domestic control in the modern classic
Paulista ((kingscore.com)(
| date | competition | place | Punctuation |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 11, 2025 | Series A | Allianz Park | Palmeiras 1–0 São Paulo |
| March 11, 2025 | Paulista Championship | Allianz Park | Palmeiras 1–0 São Paulo |
| February 16, 2025 | Paulista Championship | Allianz Park | Palmeiras 0–0 São Paulo |
| August 18, 2024 | Series A | Allianz Park | Palmeiras 2–1 São Paulo |
| April 29, 2024 | Series A | morumbi | São Paulo – Palmeiras 0-0 |
| March 3, 2024 | Paulista Championship | morumbi | São Paulo 1–1 Palmeiras |
| February 4, 2024 | Brazilian Super Cup | neutral | Palmeiras 0–0 São Paulo |
| October 25, 2023 | Series A | Allianz Park | Palmeiras 5–0 São Paulo |
| July 13, 2023 | Brazilian Cup | Allianz Park | Palmeiras 1–2 São Paulo |
| July 5, 2023 | Brazilian Cup | morumbi | São Paulo – Palmeiras 1–0 |
Recent trends point to the growing control of Palmeiras in Allianz
Parque, where compact pressing and quick transitions have been decisive.
São Paulo’s best results usually come in knock-out formats,
especially in two-legged matches, where the management of the game and the away goal
discipline have historically been strong points. ((kingscore.com)(
Key players and rivalries by era
Classic era (1960s-1980s)
This period established the emotional core of the Classic
Paulista They embodied figures from Palmeiras such as Ademir da Guia and Dudu
technical control and midfield authority, while São Paulo countered with
leaders like Roberto Dias and Serginho Chulapa, whose physical presence fixed
the tone Midfield duels were often decisive, with captains dictating
rhythm and discipline.
Modern Era (1990s-2000s)
The rivalry intensified with continental ambitions. palm trees
icons Marcos and Alex brought composure and creativity, while São Paulo
he trusted in the leadership of Rogério Ceni from the goal and the intelligence of Raí in between
the lines Key battles included Alex vs São Paulo
midfielders, and wide duels where Cafu and later Cicinho pushed the tactics
limits of lateral play.
Contemporary era (2010-2020 decades)
The last few decades have been defined by structure and coaching
influence Palmeiras leaders Gustavo Gómez and Raphael Veiga contrast with
Stalwarts of São Paulo com Lucas
Moor and Street Forward-center matchups and counter-attacking
the organization now models results, reflecting the modern emphasis of Serie A
on detail and efficiency.
| was | club | player | Role in the derby context | notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| classic | palm trees | Ademir da Guia | Midfield controller | Symbol of technical authority |
| classic | Sao Paulo | Serginho Chulapa | Center front | Physical focal point |
| modern | palm trees | Marcus | porter | The composure of a great match |
| modern | Sao Paulo | Rogério Ceni | Porter-captain | Leadership and distribution |
| modern | palm trees | Alex | Game creator | Creative reference |
| contemporary | palm trees | Gustavo Gomez | central defense | Aerial and defensive leader |
| contemporary | Sao Paulo | street | in front | Pressure reproduction and retention |
These players illustrate how the tactical priorities of each era
influenced the derby. From midfield mastery to set piece mastery,
Individual roles consistently reflected wider changes in Brazilian football
philosophy
Detailed H2H analysis
The head-to-head balance of Clássico Paulista shows a rivalry
defined by balance rather than prolonged supremacy. Palmeiras advantage in the league
meetings contrasts with São Paulo’s strongest continental record,
suggesting different competitive identities. Home advantage remains
Significant ties, however, often neutralize the effects of place
conservative moves and high risk returns.
Key statistics and performance data
Statistical patterns underline the tactical chess match
Tip Palmeiras vs São Paulo.
- A high extraction percentage reflects prudent approaches.
- Goals per game remains below the league average.
- Home wins outnumber away wins in recent decades.
- Set plays often decide close games.
Memorable matches and iconic moments
Several facilities stand out for their historical impact more than
isolated points
- March 30, 1930 – The first official meeting establishes the rivalry
in motion - March 26, 1939 – São Paulo’s record victory in
Paulista Championship - 1971 – The massive crowd in Morumbi symbolizes the derby
ladder - 1994 – The Libertadores qualifiers raise the continental level
tension - 2005 – Another elimination of Libertadores is reinforced
On the edge of São Paulo. - October 25, 2023: Landmark Palmeiras’ home win gets a makeover
modern balance
Evolution of the rivalry
From immigrant roots to modern globalized teams, the Classic
Paulista has evolved alongside Brazilian football itself. tactician
sophistication, sports science and commercial growth have changed how
matches are prepared and played, but the emotional intensity remains
constant Palmeiras vs São Paulo remains a defining reference
point for Serie A (brazil)
derby tradition.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Paulista Classic?
The derby between Palmeiras and São Paulo, also known as the
King Shock.
Who has won the most matches
in general?
Palmeiras has a slight lead in total wins.
Which competition stands out the most?
meetings?
The Campeonato Paulista has the largest number of
confrontations
It’s usually goals
high score?
No, the games are usually tight and low-scoring.
Which stadiums host the derby?
Mainly Allianz Parque and Morumbi.
Why is it considered one of the that of Brazil
bigger rivalries?
For its longevity, competitive and cultural balance
importance
History and statistics

